What are MRI Contrast Agents?
MRI contrast agents are dyes that are injected into patients prior to an MRI scan in an effort the make the resulting images significantly clearer and, therefore, dramatically easier to read. Gadolinium, a silvery metallic element, is used in some of these dyes due to the fact that its magnetic properties (when placed in a magnetic field, such as that created by an MRI scan) make it especially effective at delineating the normal cells from the abnormal and malignant growths. Patients with normal kidney function who receive gadolinium MRI agents are able to effectively flush the gadolinium out of their bodies following the scan. However, in those with impaired kidney function, their kidneys will likely be unable to fully expel the gadolinium contrast agent. If any is left in their body, patients will have a higher risk of developing NSF. The following is a discussion of some of the symptoms of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. It’s vital that patients are aware of nephrogenic systemic fibr
